The Hawaiian archipelago was created millions of years ago when underwater volcanoes emerged from the ocean’s surface. Each Hawaiian Island is home to at least one volcano, though Hawaii Island — the youngest of the main islands — consists of five volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa, which are both considered to be active, and Kohala, Mauna Kea, and Hualalai. We hear a lot about Kilauea and even Mauna Kea but rarely do we get the chance to learn about — or explore — Hualalai. That ends today because we’re sharing an epic hiking tour of Hualalai’s hidden craters that tops our travel wish list. Adventure awaits.
The westernmost, third-youngest and the third-most active of Hawaii Island’s five volcanoes, Hualalai measures in at approximately 8,271 feet above sea level.
Hawaii Forest & Trail/Website
Despite experiencing low levels of activity since its last eruption in 1801 — and being unusually inactive for the last two thousand years — Hualalai is still considered active and is expected to erupt again sometime within the next century. Ready to get up close and personal with an active volcano?
Hawaii Forest & Trail/Website
Lace up your hiking shoes as you embark on a journey few people ever take. Enjoy a three to four mile hike through an untouched cloud forest…
Hawaii Forest & Trail/Website
…and even climb through a section of a lava tube.
Hawaii Forest & Trail/Website
…stand on the edge of volcanic craters that plunge deep into the earth below…
Hawaii Forest & Trail/Website
Other highlights include a 200-year-old lava flow, spatter cones, fissures, and collapsed pits.
Hawaii Forest & Trail/Website
Don’t forget to bring your camera. The landscapes and views you’ll discover during your tour are absolutely jaw-dropping, and you’ll want to document the entire experience to share with your friends and family (they might not believe you otherwise).
Hawaii Forest & Trail/Website
After your hike, head back down to sea level where you will tour Kona’s newest brewery and enjoy a sampling of locally-made beers, ciders, and/or non-alcoholoic energy drinks.
Hawaii Forest & Trail/Website
The only way to experience the epic landscapes on Hualalai is by booking an exclusive tour with Hawaii Forest & Trail. The seven-hour tour might seem a little expensive at nearly $185 per person, but this is a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — and lunch is included!
Hawaii Forest & Trail/Website
The Hidden Craters Hike is just one of the many incredible adventures offered by Hawaii Forest & Trail. For more information, visit their website or follow them on Facebook.
Hawaii Forest & Trail/Website
Then, click here to learn all about Hawaii’s second-most active volcano, Mauna Loa.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
